A few misconceptions that should be taken into consideration regarding the water resistance level of a wristwatch (mechanical watch): What does 30 meters, 100 meters mean?

The waterproof performance of wristwatches is an issue we frequently encounter and is easily overlooked by watch enthusiasts. When we go to buy a watch, the sales consultant often tells us this: The waterproof level of the watch may be daily use waterproof, 30M, 50M or 100M waterproof. This varies by hour. However, for the casual watch enthusiast, it is not clear what these mean; He thinks that 30M and 50M mean that he can dive 30 meters and 50 meters respectively. He thinks that there will be no problem in daily life and that there is no need to take it off even when taking a shower; However, this is incorrect information.

Nowadays, as technology advances, water resistance of watches is not a technical issue. But it is not as simple as we think; Even watches with 3ATM, 5ATM, 10ATM water resistance conditions can sometimes get in water or mist. In the environment we live in, the air contains humidity and water vapor; Even if there is a waterproof marking, this only refers to the waterproof capacity at normal temperature (let me underline one point here: the same is true for original watches).

Mistakes that are easy to make

After buying a replica model, many watch enthusiasts think that it is the same as the one on the official site and its water resistance is very good. This is an extremely wrong idea, because the models on the official site also have a waterproof level. Despite this, erroneous behavior is often committed; For example, wearing the watch and taking a hot shower, taking a steam bath, or swimming under the sun. In fact, these are all completely wrong methods. Here's why: The watch is not completely sealed, only waterproof in cold water; High temperature water or water vapor will still leak inside. In particular, even the waterproof performance under 10ATM condition usually cannot withstand warm water exceeding 40 degrees. (In our daily life, even the most technologically advanced phones can only survive in cold water for 30 minutes at IP6, IP8 waterproof level; this is the extreme time, the average time is 15-20 minutes.)

The principle of watch waterproofing

There is a seal (rubber ring) at each port of the watch; such as case back, screws, dial! These vary according to the principle of expansion with heat and contraction with cold. By expanding in high temperature water, they push the connection point and create a gap. Of course, not only the gasket expands; The gasket alone does not have this power. But a force is created with other parts. When the temperature is too high, it will also cause the lubricating oil to decompose and evaporate rapidly; This is one of the reasons why the watch often stalls (runs slowly). Moreover, it damages the watch and causes oxidation. In addition to high temperature, the sudden shock of icy water also causes damage; However, since we encounter icy water less frequently, its effect is slightly less. This is an issue that is not talked about much.

Watch waterproof maintenance

What should you do if water got into your beloved watch due to carelessness? Don't worry, just send it directly for repair. The type of water entering the watch is different; Generally clean water is the most easily dissolved type. Salt water and beverage-type liquids are corrosive to the watch; In this case, it is necessary to take it to the repair service immediately, otherwise problems such as rust on the parts inside the watch may occur over time. Never leave your beloved watch alone!

Perhaps many things cannot be understood from the photographs; Let's simply explain the waterproof levels in writing.

3ATM: Daily use waterproof, splash water protection, hand washing, face washing; 5ATM: Reinforced daily use waterproof, cold water rinse (immersing is prohibited); 10ATM: Diving standard, swimming, shallow use in seawater; 200ATM: Professional diving watch, can be dived in the sea (not too deep).

The waterproof level of ordinary watches is generally at 30 meters (3ATM) and 50 meters (5ATM); Only professional diving watches such as the Rolex Submariner, Panerai, Omega Seamaster series have a water resistance level of 100 meters or above. The technology of the watch industry is becoming more mature; The waterproof level of Rolex's Submariner series is also quite professional. Its sales and popularity are also extremely high.